Q&A

Q Does acupuncture hurt?

A

Acupuncture needles are thinner than a human hair (usually 0.12-0.20mm),and insertion of the needles is usually painless. You may feel a slight sensation when needle is inserted,like a pinch or plucking a hair. Once the needles are placed,patients report a variety of sensations,including tingling,deep pressure,achiness,heaviness,and sometimes noting at all. These sensations that accompany needling are called “hibiki” in Japanese,and different styles of acupuncture bring about different sensations;however the clinical efficacy does not depend on the intensity or type of “hibiki”,so do not be concerned if you feel something in one session,but not in another. If you feel any pain or discomfort,let your acupuncturist know and he or she will make the necessary adjustments.

It is very common for patients to feel relaxed and fall into a light sleep during the session.

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Q What is an acupuncture treatment like?

A First, your acupuncturist will ask about your health history or ask you to fill out a health history form,This helps the acupuncturist understand the root of your health issues,so the treatment can address the underlying cause,not just the symptoms.Some questions may seem unusual and irrelevant to your condition, but they will help the acupuncturist understand your underlying constitution and determine a proper treatment plan.

For the treatment,specific points on the body are stimulated using needles inserted into the skin while you lie comfortably on a padded treatment table.Most people feel no or minimal discomfort during needling.The needles may be pulled out right away or retained,typically for 10 to 20 minutes,depending on the practitioner’s style.

Other treatment modalities involve merely placing,pressing or stroking needles or metal tools against the skin. Acupuncture for infants and young children usually uses these types of techniques.

Moxibustion(the burning of mugwort on or near the body) are often added to the treatment to maximize the effect of acupuncture.

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Q How is your acupuncture different from other forms?

A

My form of acupuncture is based on modern anatomy and medical science.

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Q Will acupuncture and moxibustion help my problem?

A

Acupuncture and moxibustion are widely known to effectively treat musculoskeletal problems,including neck,shoulder,lower back and knee pain.However,since ancient times they have also been used to treat many other conditions,including those that involve internal and mental functions.

Diseases and disorders that are commonly treated with acupuncture and moxibustion include:(See also website)

Acupuncture and moxibustion can help many other symptoms that are not listed here.Please ask your acupuncturist about anything particular you are concerned with. —

Q How doe acupuncture work?

A

Researchers have found that when the body is stimulated with acupuncture,morphine-like substances called endogenous opioids are released into the central nervous system.This reduces the perception of pain and also blocks pain signals from being sent ti the brain.

Acupuncture also activates the nervous system to improve blood flow and to eliminate the chemicals that cause pain fatigue,as well as other internal waste products.The autonomic nervous system is also stimulated by acupuncture,regulating the digestive and cardiovascular functions and restoring health.

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Q How many treatments will I need? How often do I have to come?

A

While it is fairly common to feel relief immediately or after a few treatments,patients with chronic or long-standing health problems may require more visits to achieve lasting change. Frequency of visits varies widely,depending on your condition.Fro severe,chronic conditions,scheduling several treatments close together is often more effective. As the condition improves,treatments are needed less frequently.After seeing how your condition responds to the initial treatment,your acupuncturist can figure out roughly how many visits you will need.

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Q Are acupuncture and moxibustion safe?

A

When practiced by a licensed,trained acupuncturist,acupuncture is extremely safe. In Japan,acupuncturists are licensed by the Minister of Health,Labour and Welfare after passing an examination and graduating from an accredited technical school or college.No other health care providers except medical doctors are legally allowed to practice acupuncture and moxibustion in Japan.

Only sterile and disposable needles are used at this acupuncture clinic so there is no risk of infection.

If you have a pacemaker,have a tendency to bleed or bruise easily,or if you are hemophiliac or pregnant,you need to notify your acupuncturist before receiving treatment.

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Q Are there any side effects?

A

There are very few side effects to acupuncture.That said,a few patients experience drowsiness after treatments.Other acupuncture side effects include fatigue,soreness,bruising at the insertion site and lightheadedness.

A small number of patients will find that their symptoms worsen after the initial treatment,but it is often followed quickly by improvement. —

Q How I take care of myself after an acupuncture treatment?

A

You can resume your normal activities.You may feel more relaxed than usual.If possible,take it easy for the rest of thew day.We do not recommend engaging in any excessive behavior,including strenuous physical activity,over-eating or heavy drinking.

Soreness or slight bruising infrequently occurs at the needling site.Soreness typically dissipates within a few days.Bruising should disappear within a week or two.It is nothing to worry about beyond the aesthetic inconvenience.

On rare occasions,your symptoms may worsen for a short time after the treatment.If the symptoms persist fore more than a few days or continue to worsen,please contact your practitioner.